Certain resources that are found naturally in the environment are used
to make everyday life more convenient and enjoyable for people. These
resources also play an important role in commercial development and are
considered vital by many companies. Listed below are a few of the most
important natural resources and how they are commonly used for the
betterment of mankind.
Image: flickr.com/photos/48991563@N06
Cotton
Found naturally on cotton plants, this fibrous material is harvested to make clothing as well as products such as coffee filters, fishing nets, and tents. The bookbinding process also sometimes involves the use of cotton. The development of the cotton gin has made it possible to separate cotton fibers from seeds quickly, which makes it easier for companies to use mass quantities of the resource more efficiently in production.
Wind
This renewable natural resource is often used to generate power for homes and businesses. Wind turbines found on wind farms are essentially giant windmills that continuously rotate to produce energy. Sailboats and kites also rely on wind in order to generate movement. Wind is considered to be a more desirable alternative to other energy sources given the fact that it is free and does not produce any greenhouse gases.
Oil
In addition to being used to fuel motorized vehicles, oil is also used to produce synthetic fibers that can be woven into items like carpets and curtains. Oil even plays an integral role in the production of plastic bottles, plant fertilizer, and candle wax. Companies are constantly trying to figure out new ways to obtain oil while saving money. Sentry Energy Production LLC is an example of a company that works to reduce oil production costs by finding new pay zones in wells that have already been proven to be rich sources of oil.
Copper
Extracted from ores found in the earth’s crust, this metal has been a part of daily life for centuries due to its durability and versatility. Pipes and wiring often feature copper components. The conductivity of copper makes it a great metal to use in electric motors. Pots, pans, and other cooking utensils are sometimes crafted from copper. Buildings constructed with copper roofs, gutters, and doors often have a better chance of withstanding harsh environmental elements. Copper is even used in glassmaking and the creation of certain musical instruments.
Gold
Many people consider gold to be one of the most valuable resources ever discovered. Coins and jewelry are often made with gold as a way to increase their worth. Technology companies rely on gold to produce circuit boards, cell phones, and TVs due to its noncorrosive properties. Gold is still sometimes used in dentistry to create fillings and crowns.
These natural resources have been used for many years to make people’s lives easier and are still being closely examined in order to find new ways to utilize their benefits. Some of the leading companies have also found ways to cut costs when harvesting these resources for production.
